Hilditch Group has celebrated a successful 10th anniversary Optoversity Challenge with Vision Care, after an energetic 2026 event that saw strong student engagement and vital fundraising for homeless eyecare services.
Hilditch Group’s Role in Optoversity 2026
Hilditch Group supported the 2026 Optoversity Challenge with a donation to help cover event running costs and contribute to student prizes, strengthening its long-term partnership with Vision Care and Out of the Box Optics.
A Decade of Optoversity – and a Big Year
This special tenth anniversary year attracted 83 optometry students from 13 universities across the UK and Republic of Ireland, all coming together to test their clinical knowledge and support Vision Care’s work. First- and second-year students took part in an online quiz event, while third-year students competed in person the following weekend at parallel events in the North and the South.
The 2026 challenge raised over £9,000 through a mix of student donations and business sponsorship, greatly benefiting the Vision Care clinics for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. UWE not only held on to their number one position in the competition, but also ARU won the prize as the best fundraising team, which showed the extent to which the entire student body was dedicated to the institution.
“We had feedback from a patient recently who said they were so excited to get their glasses they felt they looked like a lawyer now – and were looking forward to reading their paperwork for their interview to get housing.” Zoe, Clinic Volunteer
Long-Term Partnership With Vision Care
Hilditch Group’s involvement in Optoversity 2026 builds on several years of working closely with Vision Care to unlock value from surplus equipment and channel it back into frontline services. Hilditch has helped sell equipment that Vision Care no longer needs in its clinics, as well as donated items, ensuring the proceeds can subsidise vital eyecare for vulnerable people.
By combining financial support, practical asset remarketing and visible backing for student-led fundraising, Hilditch Group is helping Vision Care reach more people who would otherwise struggle to access sight tests and glasses.
The 2026 Optoversity Challenge has highlighted how collaboration between students, charities and specialist healthcare partners can drive both better sustainability and better access to care. This event shows our commitment and community spirit that define the partnership between Vision Care, Out of the Box Optics, Hilditch Group and the next generation of optometrists.
